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An ultra long trail from Cumberland, Maryland to Washington DC.


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Map Key

191.9

Miles

308.9

KM

Doubletrack

839' 256 m

High

27' 8 m

Low

1,723' 525 m

Up

2,312' 705 m

Down

0%

Avg Grade (0°)

22%

Max Grade (13°)

Dogs Leashed

E-Bikes Unknown

Description

The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Trail follows the Potomac River from Cumberland, MD to Washington DC. Historically, it was a canal that connected the two cities, though now a pleasant towpath is what remains.

At over 180 miles, this route passes through a large variety of landscapes and forest types, eventually making its way to the heart of Washington DC. Since most visitors don't attempt the full trail all at once, there are a variety of camping spots and scenic overlooks along the way. Take your time to enjoy this journey, as you'll pass many of the Mid-Atlantic's most scenic spots. The trail connects with portions of the Great Allegheny Passage, providing visitors with ample opportunities for exploration.

The trail is multi-use, and other visitors include those on foot and those on horseback. Please be courteous and give the right of way to both pedestrians and equestrians.

For more information on the trail, click here.

Shared By:

Jeffrey Go

Trail Ratings

  4.3 from 24 votes

#1

in Cumberland

#750

Overall
  4.3 from 24 votes
5 Star
54%
4 Star
33%
3 Star
8%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
4%
Trail Rankings

#1

in Cumberland

#5

in Maryland

#750

Overall
57 Views Last Month
5,401 Since Jun 4, 2016
Easy/Intermediate Easy/Intermediate

48%
34%
14%
0%
3%
0%

Photos

The lush green of springtime on the towpath.
Sep 26, 2018 near Berkele…, WV
Georgetown to Point of Rocks on the C/O Canal.
Jul 16, 2022 near Washington, DC
Lock 22 needs repair!
Aug 27, 2017 near Travilah, MD
South of Great Falls on the C&O Canal Trail
Nov 14, 2020 near Potomac, MD
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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

All Clear 91 days ago
Add Your Check-In

Check-Ins

Aug 4, 2022
Isaac Michaels
Good easy Trail. lots of locks to see in DC. 9.2mi — 1h 25m
Nov 27, 2021
Jose L
129.5mi — 16h 08m
Jun 15, 2021
Karim Bekka
After a 2 day rest in Cumberland, rode to Washington DC in 6 days. Enjoyed the "rougher" nature of the C&O compared to the GAP. 219.2mi — 26h 15m
Mar 14, 2021
Noah Lantor
16.5mi — 2h 00m
Jan 29, 2021
Eric Sussman
191mi
May 30, 2020
Ines Martin
Lockhouse 24-25 18mi
Mar 8, 2020
Mark Schwenk
Dec 18, 2019
Tyler Fabricius
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